The United States and Burma have agreed to cooperate on anti-trafficking measures, according to a statement issued by the US Department of State on November 18, just hours ahead of the first visit to Burma by a US president.

“The governments affirm that this joint plan provides a framework for joint action against all forms of trafficking in persons, including both sex and labor trafficking, whether committed across international borders or wholly within a country’s borders,” the statement said.

The joint statement also made mention of efforts by the Burmese government to curb cases of forced labor and the illegal recruitment of child soldiers.

In terms of support, the US pledged to “provide technical assistance, training, and the regular sharing of best practices in the areas of law enforcement investigations, victim/witness interviewing, victim assistance, and trafficking prevention, through U.S. government-funded programs.”